A Review on Costus Igneus Plant

Costus igneus Nak and Costus pictus D. Don, commonly referred to as the Spiral flag, belong to the family Costaceae and are relatively recent introductions to India from South and Central America. These plants are perennial in nature, growing upright with a spreading habit, and typically reach a height of about two feet. They are characterized by spirally arranged leaves and visually appealing flowers. In southern regions of India, the plant is widely cultivated as an ornamental species, and its leaves are traditionally consumed as a dietary supplement for managing diabetes. In recent years, several scientific studies have investigated its antidiabetic activity. In addition to this, the plant has demonstrated multiple pharmacological properties such as lipid-lowering, diuretic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer effects. Phytochemical investigations have identified the presence of carbohydrates, proteins, triterpenoids, alkaloids, tannins, saponins, flavonoids, steroids, and trace elements. The present work aims to review and summarize the available literature on the phytochemical composition and pharmacological activities reported for this plant to date.